UNIDENTIFIED OBJECT

A cast copper-alloy object of uncertain form, possibly a strap distributor or a toggle and of probable Iron Age date. It is Y-shaped in form with cylindrical arms that swell towards their terminal ends. Casting seams are just visible down the sides of the arms and at the juncture between the three arms there are two transverse moulded ridges on the front(?) face. The two shorter arms at the top of the object appear to have single circumferential moulded ridges just above the point where they join the longer lower arm. Each of the arms has a small circular longitudinal perforation, suggesting that it could have been threaded onto a relatively thin string or strings, perhaps to hold them in place and distribute them evenly. It measures 34.67mm in length, 26.32mm in width, 8.51mm in thickness, and weighs 13.43g. The object has a very dark green patina and shows signs of wear and copper-alloy corrosion in places. A close parallel for this object has not yet been identified. However, its form and general appearance recalls objects such as strap distributors and toggles utilised during the Iron Age. At present this seems like the most likely date for the object, although a later date cannot immediately be ruled out.